Traits of Adolescence - Essay Example

The biological changes that occur signal the entry of a child into the adolescent period. This includes the development of primary and secondary sexual characteristics and the children become more conscious about their physical appearance. Apart from introducing physical changes, the hormonal effects also bring about major changes in psychological behavioral patterns. These may include signs such as aggressive behavior, mood swings, or an increase in sexual libido and occur during early adolescents.

These changes also determine their social behavior. There is a sharp increase in the cognitive ability during this period when adolescents begin to rationalize, consider the different dimensions to an issue and begin to understand and become more aware of themselves, the people around and their environment. It cannot however be predicted for sure as to when these changes occur but there is a marked difference in the cognitive abilities of children and adolescents. Today’s society also realizes the importance of channelizing the cognitive abilities of adolescents in a positive direction as it would help them to cope better in the competitive world.

In the modern world adolescents are being subjected to increased pressures both within the family and their peers. Living in poverty and being constantly exposed to violence also leaves a lasting negative impact on the minds of adolescents. Such unwarranted pressures might lead them to make wrong decisions and give rise to various behavioral problems that could have an adverse affect on their future. Hence increased awareness is being created to engage adolescents in discussions encourage them to rationalize and think independently and set goals for their future.

Both parents and society have a major role to play in grooming the young adults and help them have a bright future. A positive trend is being observed in recent times where parents are spending more time with their wards and are able to better understand the needs of their growing child. More agreements are being reached regarding issues such as education, world affairs, and spirituality. This could be mainly attributed to the lessening gap in communication between parents and their children which was not present in the previous generations where parents maintained a distance with their children.

In addition to imparting developmental and educational knowledge, today’s adolescents are being taught about the importance of moral education which would be helpful while making the right decisions in life. The adolescent period, from the viewpoint of society, does have its share of positives and negatives. However, it only depends on how lasting an impact is on the minds of the young to turn it into a habit for life. When adolescent youths are constantly in the company of violent and notorious gangs, they will naturally be drawn to that way of life.

Given the fact that children can be groomed to responsible adults during this period, it is a huge responsibility for both the parents as well as the society on the whole to encourage the young to adopt the path of righteousness and good conduct. Being in the right company will only help to nurture positive thinking, hard work, dedication and other such useful qualities in the adolescent. Hence this stage is the prime of youth where the mind is fine-tuned to take on the responsibilities of an adult and when the right motivation is provided adolescents can become great achievers in their future.